Do you ever wonder what it takes to turn a passion into a profitable side hustle? Well, look no further than these 10 social media stars who have done just that. From beauty bloggers to comedians, these trailblazers have leveraged their online followings to build successful businesses, launch apps, and even create their own merchandise lines.
So, buckle up and get ready to be inspired by the entrepreneurial spirit of these social media stars!
Table of Contents
1. Logan Paul and KSI
Logan Paul and KSI, two social media stars turned professional boxers, have expanded their brands beyond the ring and into the world of business. One notable example is their joint venture, Prime Energy, an energy drink company.
After their highly publicized boxing match in 2018, which garnered millions of views on YouTube, Paul and KSI saw an opportunity to capitalize on their massive fan base and entrepreneurial spirit. They launched Prime Energy in 2019, a brand that promotes an active and healthy lifestyle.
Logan Paul and KSI’s success with Prime Energy is a prime example of how social media stars can leverage their personal brand and fan base to launch successful side hustles. By tapping into their audience’s interests and needs, they were able to create a product that resonated with their fans and generated significant revenue.
2. Kylie Jenner - Kylie Cosmetics
Kylie Jenner’s journey as an entrepreneur began in 2015 when she released her first line of lip kits. These kits sold out within minutes, and Kylie Cosmetics was born. From there, she continued to expand her product line, offering a wide range of cosmetics, including eyeshadows, highlighters, blushes, and more.
What makes Kylie’s business so successful is her ability to connect with her audience on social media. She regularly posts about her products, sharing tutorials and behind-the-scenes glimpses into her business. Her followers feel a sense of connection to her, which has helped to build brand loyalty and drive sales.
In addition to her social media presence, Kylie has also leveraged her celebrity status to promote her products. She’s been spotted wearing her own makeup on red carpets and at events, which has helped to generate buzz and interest in her brand.
Kylie’s success has not been without controversy, however. She faced criticism in the early days of her business for allegedly copying other makeup artists’ work. She has also been accused of appropriating Black culture and profiting off of it through her products. Despite these criticisms, Kylie has continued to grow her business, and Kylie Cosmetics is now a household name.
Today, Kylie Cosmetics is estimated to be worth over $900 million, making Kylie one of the wealthiest women in the world. Her success has inspired many others to follow in her footsteps and start their own businesses using social media as a platform.
3. David Dobrik - Dispo
David Dobrik is known for his hilarious vlogs on YouTube and his magnetic personality. But he is more than just an internet sensation. He is also a successful entrepreneur who has recently launched his own photo-sharing app called Dispo.
Dispo is a unique app that simulates the experience of using a disposable camera. Users take pictures with the app, but they have to wait until the next day to see the results. This delay is intended to recreate the feeling of anticipation and excitement that comes with using a disposable camera.
The app has been incredibly successful since its launch, with many users praising its unique features and user interface. In fact, Dispo has already received funding from top investors in Silicon Valley, including Spark Capital, Seven Seven Six, and Unshackled Ventures.
Dobrik’s success with Dispo is a testament to his creativity and ability to think outside the box. He saw a gap in the market for a photo-sharing app that recreates the nostalgic experience of using a disposable camera, and he capitalized on it. His loyal fanbase on YouTube and social media also helped to spread the word about the app and generate buzz.
Overall, David Dobrik’s success with Dispo shows that social media stars can use their platform to launch successful businesses. By leveraging their massive following and understanding their audience, they can create innovative products and services that resonate with their fans and attract new customers.
4. Jenna Kutcher - The Goal Digger Podcast
Jenna Kutcher is a prime example of a social media influencer turned entrepreneur. With her impressive following on platforms like Instagram, she was able to build a brand that extends far beyond just her stunning photography skills. Kutcher has used her online presence to share her insights on entrepreneurship, business, and personal development with the world through her podcast, The Goal Digger.
Launched in 2016, The Goal Digger podcast features interviews with successful entrepreneurs, marketing experts, and influencers. It provides actionable advice and practical tips for those who are looking to start or grow their own business. The podcast has become a massive success, with over 11 million downloads to date.
Kutcher’s approachable personality and relatable stories make her an engaging host, and her expertise in marketing has helped her create a loyal following. She has also monetized her podcast through sponsorships and advertising, generating a significant income stream.
In addition to her podcast, Kutcher has also launched her own online courses and coaching services. She offers a variety of courses on topics such as social media marketing, email marketing, and entrepreneurship, helping others build their own successful businesses. Her courses have become wildly popular, attracting thousands of students and generating significant revenue.
Overall, Jenna Kutcher’s success as an entrepreneur is a testament to the power of social media and personal branding. By leveraging her online presence and expertise, she has been able to build a loyal following and create a thriving business. Her story is an inspiration to anyone looking to turn their passion and expertise into a successful career.
5. Casey Neistat - Beme and 368
Casey Neistat is known for his unique storytelling style and creative vision that has earned him millions of followers on social media. He is a true entrepreneur at heart, constantly seeking new and innovative ways to express himself and connect with his audience. One of his most notable ventures is Beme, a social media app that he co-founded with Matt Hackett in 2015.
Beme was an app that aimed to bring authenticity back to social media by allowing users to share raw, unfiltered video content without the pressure of likes, comments, or followers. The app gained a lot of attention, especially from the tech and media industries, and was eventually acquired by CNN for a reported $25 million.
However, Neistat didn’t stop there. He went on to launch a creative studio called 368 in New York City, which is focused on empowering creators and fostering a sense of community among them. The studio hosts workshops, events, and even offers studio space and equipment for creators to use.
Neistat has always been an advocate for the power of storytelling and has used his platforms to inspire and motivate others to pursue their passions. With Beme and 368, he has not only created successful businesses but has also created a space for creators to come together and collaborate.
6. Michelle Phan - Em Cosmetics
Michelle Phan is a true pioneer in the world of social media entrepreneurship. She began posting beauty tutorials on YouTube in 2007, and quickly gained a massive following. By 2013, she had amassed over 6 million subscribers, making her one of the most influential beauty vloggers on the platform.
Taking advantage of her massive online presence, Michelle decided to launch her own makeup line, Em Cosmetics, in 2013. The line initially debuted exclusively online and offered a range of makeup products that were inspired by Michelle’s signature looks.
Em Cosmetics quickly became a huge success, with fans eagerly snapping up products and sharing their looks on social media. The line’s focus on inclusivity and diversity also helped it stand out in a crowded market.
In 2016, Michelle took a hiatus from YouTube and the beauty industry to focus on other projects, but she eventually returned to relaunch Em Cosmetics in 2017. This time around, the line was revamped with new packaging and an expanded product range.
The relaunch was a huge success, with Em Cosmetics quickly becoming one of the most popular makeup brands on social media. In 2019, the line was even picked up by Ulta Beauty, one of the largest beauty retailers in the United States.
Michelle’s success with Em Cosmetics is a testament to the power of social media and the influence of online creators. By leveraging her massive following, she was able to turn her passion for makeup into a thriving business that continues to grow and evolve today.
7. Joe Rogan - The Joe Rogan Experience and Onnit
Joe Rogan is a household name in the world of podcasting and comedy, but he has also made a name for himself as an entrepreneur. In addition to his wildly successful podcast, The Joe Rogan Experience, he is the founder of Onnit, a supplement company that focuses on holistic wellness.
Onnit was founded in 2010 and offers a range of supplements, including those for cognitive function, immune support, and physical performance. The company has gained a dedicated following, with customers including professional athletes and celebrities.
Rogan has been a vocal advocate for Onnit and its products, often promoting them on his podcast and social media channels. He has even credited the company’s supplements with helping him to stay in shape and maintain his mental clarity.
In addition to Onnit, Rogan has also dabbled in other business ventures, including a comedy club in Austin, Texas, where he currently resides. His entrepreneurial spirit and willingness to take risks have made him a role model for many aspiring entrepreneurs and podcast hosts.
Through his various ventures, Rogan has shown that it’s possible to turn your passions into profitable businesses. He has also demonstrated the importance of staying true to your values and beliefs, even in the face of criticism and controversy. Rogan’s success is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and a willingness to take risks.
8. Chiara Ferragni - The Blonde Salad
Chiara Ferragni is an Italian fashion influencer, blogger, and entrepreneur who has become one of the most prominent figures in the fashion industry. With over 23 million followers on Instagram, she has been able to leverage her social media presence to launch her own fashion brand, The Blonde Salad.
The Blonde Salad started out as a personal style blog in 2009, where Ferragni shared her own fashion tips, inspiration, and travel stories. As her blog gained more popularity, Ferragni began to collaborate with major fashion brands and designers, and even started designing her own clothing and accessories.
In 2013, Ferragni launched The Blonde Salad as a full-fledged fashion and lifestyle brand. The brand includes a clothing line, shoes, accessories, and a lifestyle blog that covers everything from fashion and beauty to travel and food.
Ferragni’s entrepreneurial skills and marketing savvy have helped turn The Blonde Salad into a major global brand. The brand has collaborated with major fashion houses like Tod’s and Pantene, and has even launched its own pop-up stores and physical retail locations.
Ferragni’s success as an entrepreneur and fashion influencer has been recognized by Forbes, who included her on their 30 Under 30 list for the art and style category. She has also been named one of the most influential people in the fashion industry by Business of Fashion.
Overall, Chiara Ferragni’s success with The Blonde Salad is a testament to the power of social media and personal branding. By leveraging her massive following and personal style, Ferragni has been able to create a successful fashion brand that resonates with people all over the world.
9. PewDiePie - Tsuki Market
PewDiePie, whose real name is Felix Kjellberg, is one of the biggest YouTube personalities in the world, with a massive following of over 110 million subscribers. He has used his influence to launch his own merchandise line called Tsuki Market, which offers a range of products including clothing, accessories, and a mobile game.
The Tsuki Market brand has become incredibly popular among PewDiePie’s fans, with its unique and playful designs. The clothing line features a variety of t-shirts, hoodies, and even a onesie with the iconic Tsuki character, a cute and mischievous rabbit that has become a beloved mascot of the brand.
In addition to clothing, Tsuki Market also offers a variety of accessories, such as phone cases, stickers, and plushies. These items are often sold in limited editions, which adds to their exclusivity and collectability. PewDiePie has also collaborated with other creators, such as artist Spazkid, to create unique and playful designs.
One of the most exciting aspects of Tsuki Market is its mobile game, “Tsuki Adventure.” The game allows players to follow Tsuki on his adventures and explore a beautiful, peaceful world filled with charming characters and hidden secrets. The game has become incredibly popular, with millions of downloads on both iOS and Android devices.
Overall, Tsuki Market is a prime example of how a social media star can leverage their influence to create a successful side hustle. PewDiePie’s loyal fanbase has allowed him to create a brand that resonates with his audience, and his unique and playful designs have made Tsuki Market a hit among fans worldwide.
10. Grace Bonney - DesignSponge
Grace Bonney is a design enthusiast and writer who has leveraged her online following to create one of the most popular design websites in the world, DesignSponge. What started as a personal blog has now grown into a full-fledged online publication that inspires millions of readers every month.
DesignSponge covers everything from home decor and DIY projects to travel and entertaining. Bonney’s love for design and her passion for sharing it with others has made DesignSponge a go-to resource for design enthusiasts all over the world. She has even published her own book, “In the Company of Women,” which features interviews with over 100 female entrepreneurs.
Bonney’s success with DesignSponge has led her to launch other successful ventures, such as Good Company, a quarterly print magazine that focuses on creative entrepreneurship. She has also been a speaker and mentor for numerous design and entrepreneurship events, sharing her insights and knowledge with others in the industry.
Through DesignSponge and her other ventures, Grace Bonney has shown that with hard work, dedication, and a passion for your craft, you can turn your side hustle into a successful business. Her journey is a testament to the power of community and the importance of pursuing your dreams.
10. Bethany Mota - Aéropostale and Own Your Glow
Bethany Mota is a YouTube sensation who has built a massive following through her lifestyle, beauty, and fashion videos. She has been able to leverage her influence to launch multiple successful ventures, including her own fashion line with Aéropostale and her own self-help book called Own Your Glow.
Mota’s fashion line with Aéropostale, which was launched in 2013, has been a huge success. The line includes a range of clothing and accessories, and has been praised for its affordability and inclusivity. Mota has also launched her own fragrance with the brand, called “Bethany Mota Fragrance”.
In addition to her fashion ventures, Mota has also authored her own self-help book called “Own Your Glow”. The book encourages readers to embrace their unique qualities and find their own path to success. Mota has also launched a successful podcast called “All In With Bethany Mota”, where she shares advice and insights on everything from fashion to mental health.
Mota has been able to build a loyal following by being authentic and relatable. She has been open about her struggles with anxiety and depression, and has used her platform to advocate for mental health awareness. Through her various ventures, Mota has become a role model for young women, inspiring them to embrace their passions and follow their dreams.
To Sum Up.
These social media stars have shown that with hard work and dedication, anyone can turn their online influence into a successful side hustle. Whether you’re a blogger, vlogger, or influencer, there are endless opportunities to leverage your online presence and build a successful brand. So, what are you waiting for?
Start building your own empire today.
